In what turned out to be yet another tough outing for the Chennai Super Kings (CSK), the team suffered its fourth consecutive loss in the IPL 2025 season. Taking on Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a high-scoring encounter on Tuesday, CSK fell short by 18 runs while chasing a daunting total of 220. Despite the defeat, the fans witnessed a nostalgic moment as MS Dhoni, albeit briefly, showcased a glimpse of his former explosive self, rekindling memories of his prime.

Coming into bat at No. 5—his highest position in this edition of the IPL—Dhoni played a short but impactful cameo. He smashed 27 runs off just 12 deliveries, including three towering sixes and a boundary. Though the knock couldn’t take CSK across the finish line, it injected energy into the stadium and stirred emotions among fans, highlighting the timeless aura Dhoni brings to the crease.

Sidhu and Rayudu’s Colorful Commentary Exchange

Dhoni’s arrival at the crease also sparked a dramatic exchange in the commentary box between former India cricketers Ambati Rayudu and Navjot Singh Sidhu. As Dhoni made his way to the field, Rayudu, now a commentator, went poetic in his admiration, declaring, “It seems MS Dhoni is coming out with a sword in his hand, not a bat. The sword will be wielded tonight, and it will be Dhoni's sword that will be wielded.”

This rather flamboyant statement was met with a witty retort from Sidhu, who replied, “Guru, you're saying like he is not coming to play cricket but to fight a war.” Sidhu, in his usual animated style, added that the intent was visible in Dhoni’s body language as he descended the stairs to take the field.

Dhoni Cricket khelne aye hain Guru ? Yudh ladne nahin ? …. #IPL pic.twitter.com/MUmn6ivgyN

— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) April 9, 2025

Insight into Dhoni’s Intent and Body Language

Sidhu further observed that Dhoni appeared particularly charged up for this match. "In the last game, he entered calmly, but tonight, even in the warm-up, he removed the black thing he usually wears on his knee. Tonight, we will see a fearless Dhoni,” Sidhu remarked. The comment reflected the belief that Dhoni was ready to play freely, unburdened by the pressure of the situation and purely focused on delivering an entertaining inning.

While his short stay at the crease didn’t change the outcome of the match, it was enough to ignite the CSK faithful, who have been longing for their beloved captain to take center stage more frequently.

Tensions Flare on Live TV: Rayudu vs. Sidhu

The heated atmosphere wasn’t restricted to the field alone. Off the field, during the live broadcast, Ambati Rayudu and Navjot Singh Sidhu got into a verbal spat that quickly grabbed attention on social media. The argument took a personal turn when Rayudu accused Sidhu of frequently switching allegiances, calling him a “girgit” (chameleon).

Sidhu, never one to back down from a war of words, responded with a sharp quip that instantly went viral. He replied, “Is sansar me girgit ki tarah koi hai to tumhare aradhyadev hai (If there's someone in this world who is like a chameleon, it is your idol).” The cryptic remark left fans guessing about the deeper implications and who exactly Sidhu was referring to.

Social Media Buzz and Aftermath

The intense exchange between Sidhu and Rayudu quickly became a trending topic across social media platforms. While some fans found humor in the clash, others expressed concern over the increasing frequency of such on-air arguments. Rayudu had already made headlines a day prior for a heated debate with former India coach Sanjay Bangar, and this latest incident added fuel to the fire.

As for CSK, the team is in urgent need of a turnaround. With the season slipping away, fans are hoping for more than just glimpses of Dhoni’s brilliance—they're yearning for consistent performances that can revive the team's campaign.